TARPON SPRINGS – Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputies found the body of a missing boater who disappeared Saturday afternoon after he jumped in Lake Tarpon to save his dog.

According to deputies, the body of John Patti, 70, of Palm Harbor was located about 8:15 a.m. Sunday, May 25, near the Brooker Creek area of Lake Tarpon. Deputies had been searching for the man since about 4 p.m. Saturday, using sonar equipment, helicopters, and boats.

Patti and three others were on a pontoon boat when their dog jumped into the water. Patti jumped in to save the dog, but disappeared under water. The dog returned safely to the boat.

The medical examiner will complete an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Deputies said the death appears accidental and not suspicious in nature.